By Alicia Mmashakana
THE National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Mpumalanga on Thursday withdrew its case against the 95 Libyan nationals who were found to have been undergoing military training in the province while on study visas.
The National Prosecuting Authority said there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the men.
“The only charge that was brought to the NPA was that of the contravention of the Immigration Act against the 95 Libyan nationals,” said NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa.
Defence lawyer Nico Du Plessis said they welcome the NPA’s withdrawal of charges
“They [clients] are very happy that the charges have been withdrawn against them, it is what we expected. I think that matter is still under investigation, as far as we know we had security training,” said du Plessis.
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has instructed the Department to proceed with speed, while observing all the legal processes to ensure that the men’s deportations are conducted swiftly.
“Home Affairs personnel are in court to obtain confirmation for deportation from the Magistrate. This will clear the path for their deportation. They are also completing the logistics for the expulsion.
“As previously stated, deportation was one of the alternatives discussed by Home Affairs while collaborating with other law enforcement agencies. The department is preparing to send the group back to their home nation,” Schreiber said.
The NPA, in coordination with its criminal justice partners, said the 95 accused will be under the custody of the Department of Home Affairs that will facilitate the deportation.
Police had alleged that the men — who entered the country on study visa were discovered living in military tents at a training base in White River, Mpumalanga, where non-South African instructors and trainers held military positions.
The police also discovered military training equipment, licensed firearms, dagga, and cocaine.
During their initial court appearances, the accused claimed they were receiving security training at the camp.
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